Substance Use Disorders Practice Questions

Q: Which of the following is NOT an anti-craving agent for alcohol dependence?

Lorazepam. ### Explanation **1. Why Lorazepam is the correct answer:** Lorazepam is a **Benzodiazepine** (BZD). In the context of alcohol use disorder, BZDs are the drugs of choice for managing **acute alcohol withdrawal** and preventing complications like seizures or delirium tremens. They act as cross-tolerant agents with alcohol at the GABA-A receptor. However, they are **not** anti-craving agents. In fact, long-term use of BZDs in alcohol-dependent patients is generally avoided due to their high potential for abuse and dependence. **2. Why the other options are incorrect (Anti-craving agents):** * **Acamprosate:** An NMDA receptor antagonist and GABA-A agonist. It helps maintain abstinence by "calming the brain" after withdrawal. It is the drug of choice for patients with **liver disease** (as it is renally excreted). * **Naltrexone:** An opioid receptor antagonist that blocks the "reward" or euphoria associated with drinking, thereby reducing the urge to drink. It is often the first-line choice but is contraindicated in acute hepatitis or liver failure. * **Topiramate:** An anti-epileptic that modulates glutamate and GABA. It is used off-label as an effective second-line anti-craving agent to reduce the number of heavy drinking days. **3. High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Disulfiram:** Not an anti-craving agent; it is an **Aversion Therapy** agent (Aldehyde Dehydrogenase inhibitor) that causes a physical reaction if alcohol is consumed. * **Baclofen:** A GABA-B agonist used to reduce cravings, particularly in patients with **alcoholic liver disease/cirrhosis**. * **Drug of Choice (DOC) for Alcohol Withdrawal:** Chlordiazepoxide or Diazepam. * **DOC for Withdrawal in Liver Failure:** Lorazepam, Oxazepam, or Temazepam (mnemonic: **LOT**—these bypass phase I hepatic metabolism).

Q: Which of the following is NOT typically seen in alcohol withdrawal?

Blackouts. **Explanation:** The correct answer is **Blackouts**. In the context of alcohol use, a "blackout" refers to an episode of **anterograde amnesia** occurring *during* a period of acute intoxication. It is caused by the interference of high blood alcohol levels with the hippocampus, preventing the consolidation of short-term memories into long-term storage. Therefore, blackouts are a feature of **intoxication**, not withdrawal. **Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **Seizures (Option A):** These are a classic feature of alcohol withdrawal, typically occurring 6–48 hours after the last drink. They are usually generalized tonic-clonic ("rum fits") and occur due to CNS hyperexcitability following the removal of GABAergic suppression. * **Coarse Tremor (Option C):** This is the **most common** and earliest sign of alcohol withdrawal (appearing within 6–12 hours). It is a high-frequency, coarse tremor of the hands, often accompanied by autonomic hyperactivity (tachycardia, hypertension). * **Hallucinations (Option D):** Alcoholic hallucinosis occurs 12–24 hours after cessation. Unlike Delirium Tremens, these occur in a state of **clear sensorium** (the patient is conscious and oriented). They are most commonly auditory. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Delirium Tremens (DT):** The most severe form of withdrawal, occurring at 48–96 hours. Characterized by clouded consciousness, fluctuating vitals, and vivid visual hallucinations (e.g., microzoopsia). * **Drug of Choice:** Benzodiazepines (e.g., Chlordiazepoxide or Diazepam) are the gold standard for managing withdrawal. In patients with liver failure, use **LOT** (Lorazepam, Oxazepam, Temazepam) as they have no active metabolites. * **Wernicke’s Encephalopathy Triad:** Ataxia, Global Confusion, and Ophthalmoplegia (due to Thiamine/B1 deficiency). Always give Thiamine *before* Glucose.

Q: A 36-year-old female with a history of chronic alcoholism reports auditory hallucinations, specifically hearing voices giving commands, and also experiences insomnia. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Alcoholic hallucinosis. The correct diagnosis is **Alcoholic Hallucinosis** [1]. This condition typically occurs within 12 to 24 hours after the cessation or reduction of heavy alcohol intake. The hallmark of this condition is the presence of vivid auditory hallucinations (often voices or commands) occurring in a state of **clear sensorium** (the patient is alert and oriented) [1]. Unlike other withdrawal syndromes, the patient usually remains hemodynamically stable. **Why other options are incorrect:** * **Delirium Tremens (DT):** This is the most severe form of withdrawal, occurring 48–96 hours after the last drink [1]. It is characterized by **clouding of consciousness** (disorientation), autonomic hyperactivity (tachycardia, hypertension, fever), and agitation. The patient in the question is not described as disoriented or autonomic-unstable. * **Depression:** While common in chronic alcoholism, it does not typically present with acute auditory command hallucinations in the absence of a primary psychotic disorder. * **Wernicke’s Encephalopathy:** This is caused by Thiamine (B1) deficiency and is defined by the classic triad of **Ophthalmoplegia/Nystagmus, Ataxia, and Confusion** [1]. It does not primarily present with isolated hallucinations. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** 1. **Timeline:** Alcoholic hallucinosis (12–24 hrs) precedes Delirium Tremens (48–96 hrs). 2. **Sensorium:** The key differentiator is that in Hallucinosis, the sensorium is **clear**, whereas in DT, the sensorium is **clouded** [1]. 3. **Vital Signs:** Hallucinosis presents with stable vitals; DT presents with autonomic instability. 4. **Treatment:** Both are managed with Benzodiazepines (e.g., Diazepam, Lorazepam) to prevent progression and manage symptoms [1].

Q: Which non-opioid medication can be used to treat some of the symptoms of opioid withdrawal syndrome?

Clonidine. **Explanation:** **1. Why Clonidine is Correct:** Opioid withdrawal is characterized by **autonomic hyperactivity** due to the sudden removal of opioid-mediated inhibition on the locus coeruleus (the brain's primary noradrenergic center). This results in a massive release of norepinephrine, leading to symptoms like tachycardia, hypertension, sweating, lacrimation, rhinorrhea, and restlessness. **Clonidine** is a centrally acting **$\alpha_2$-adrenergic agonist**. By stimulating presynaptic $\alpha_2$ receptors, it inhibits the release of norepinephrine, thereby effectively suppressing the autonomic symptoms of withdrawal. It is a non-opioid, non-addictive alternative often used in outpatient settings or when opioid substitution is not preferred. **2. Why Other Options are Incorrect:** * **A. Chlordiazepoxide:** A long-acting benzodiazepine used primarily for **Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome** to prevent seizures and delirium tremens. It does not target the specific pathophysiology of opioid withdrawal. * **B. Haloperidol:** A typical antipsychotic used for schizophrenia or acute psychosis. It has no role in opioid withdrawal and may lower the seizure threshold. * **C. Methadone:** While highly effective for opioid withdrawal, it is a **synthetic opioid agonist**. The question specifically asks for a **non-opioid** medication. **3. High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Lofexidine:** A newer, more selective $\alpha_2$ agonist approved specifically for opioid withdrawal with fewer hypotensive side effects than Clonidine. * **Limitation:** Clonidine is excellent for autonomic symptoms but **poor** at controlling subjective symptoms like drug craving, insomnia, or muscle aches. * **Monitoring:** Always monitor **Blood Pressure** before administering Clonidine, as it can cause significant orthostatic hypotension. * **COWS Scale:** The Clinical Opiate Withdrawal Scale (COWS) is used to monitor the severity of symptoms and guide treatment.

Q: Which of the following is a true statement regarding addictive gaming behaviour?

It will come into effect from January 1, 2022.. **Explanation:** Gaming Disorder was officially recognized as a mental health condition by the World Health Organization (WHO) in the **11th Revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11)**. While the ICD-11 was adopted in 2019, it officially came into effect for reporting and diagnostic purposes on **January 1, 2022**, making Option A the correct statement. **Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **Option B:** For a diagnosis of Gaming Disorder, the behavioral pattern must be of sufficient severity to result in significant impairment in personal, family, social, educational, or occupational areas for at least **12 months** (not 6 months). This duration may be shortened only if symptoms are severe and all diagnostic requirements are met. * **Option C:** Addictive gaming typically leads to a neglect of basic self-care. It affects **both** sleep patterns (insomnia/delayed sleep phase) and dietary habits (skipping meals or consuming unhealthy snacks), along with a decline in personal hygiene. * **Option D:** Gaming disorder is characterized by a **sedentary lifestyle**. It shows decreased physical activity, which often leads to secondary health issues like obesity and musculoskeletal strain. **High-Yield Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **ICD-11 Definition:** Characterized by impaired control over gaming, increasing priority given to gaming over other interests, and continuation/escalation of gaming despite negative consequences. * **Comparison:** Unlike the ICD-11, the **DSM-5** (APA) lists "Internet Gaming Disorder" in the section for conditions requiring further study, rather than as a formal diagnosis. * **Key Diagnostic Feature:** The "loss of control" is the hallmark of the addiction, similar to substance use disorders.

Q: Physical withdrawal symptoms are not marked in patients abusing which of the following substances?

Cannabis. ### Explanation The correct answer is **Cannabis**. **1. Why Cannabis is the correct answer:** Withdrawal symptoms are primarily driven by the rapid clearance of a substance from the body, leading to neurochemical rebound. **Cannabis (THC)** is highly lipophilic and is stored in the body's adipose tissue. It has a very long half-life (approx. 5–7 days). When a user stops consumption, THC is released slowly from the fat stores into the bloodstream, creating a "self-tapering" effect. Consequently, while psychological symptoms (irritability, insomnia, anxiety) occur, **marked physical withdrawal symptoms** (like those seen in opioids or alcohol) are typically absent or very mild. **2. Why the other options are incorrect:** * **Pethidine & Opium (Opioids):** Opioid withdrawal is characterized by intense physical symptoms due to autonomic hyperactivity. Symptoms include lacrimation, rhinorrhea, piloerection (cold turkey), dilated pupils, and severe muscle/abdominal cramps. * **Alcohol:** Alcohol withdrawal is medically significant and potentially life-threatening. It involves marked physical symptoms such as tremors, tachycardia, sweating, and in severe cases, seizures or delirium tremens. **3. High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Cannabis:** Most commonly used illicit drug worldwide. Long-term use is associated with **Amotivational Syndrome**. * **Flashbacks:** Spontaneous recurrence of the drug experience in the absence of the drug; most common with **LSD**, but can occur with Cannabis. * **Opioid Withdrawal:** Though extremely painful and distressing ("flu-like" symptoms), it is usually **not life-threatening**, unlike Alcohol or Benzodiazepine withdrawal. * **Cocaine:** Another substance where physical withdrawal is not marked; it primarily presents with a "crash" (dysphoria and exhaustion).

Q: Which of the following is a symptom of opioid withdrawal?

Piloerection. Opioid withdrawal is a high-yield topic for NEET-PG, characterized by a state of **autonomic hyperactivity**. When chronic opioid use is ceased, the body experiences a "rebound" effect of the sympathetic nervous system. **Explanation of the Correct Answer:** **A. Piloerection:** This is a classic sign of opioid withdrawal. It occurs due to sympathetic overactivity affecting the arrector pili muscles. Historically, this gave rise to the term "cold turkey" because the skin resembles that of a plucked turkey. **Explanation of Incorrect Options:** * **B. Dry skin:** In withdrawal, patients experience **diaphoresis** (profuse sweating) rather than dry skin. * **C. Bradycardia:** Withdrawal causes **tachycardia** and hypertension. Bradycardia is typically seen in opioid intoxication. * **D. Pupillary constriction (Miosis):** This is a hallmark of opioid **intoxication**. In withdrawal, the pupils undergo **mydriasis** (dilation). **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** 1. **Symptoms Checklist:** Think of "flu-like" symptoms: Rhinorrhea, lacrimation, yawning, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. 2. **The "Gooseflesh" Sign:** Piloerection is one of the most specific objective signs of withdrawal. 3. **COWS Scale:** The Clinical Opiate Withdrawal Scale (COWS) is used to rate the severity of these symptoms. 4. **Management:** Clonidine (alpha-2 agonist) is used to treat autonomic symptoms, while Methadone or Buprenorphine are used for long-term detoxification. 5. **Life-threatening?** Unlike alcohol or benzodiazepine withdrawal, opioid withdrawal is extremely distressing but rarely life-threatening in adults.

Question 1

Which of the following is NOT an anti-craving agent for alcohol dependence?

Accepted Answer

Lorazepam

Answer

Acamprosate

Answer

Topiramate

Answer

Naltrexone

Question 2

A 31-year-old male was brought to the emergency room after having a seizure at work. His colleague reported that over the past 6 months, the patient frequently came late to the office and received warnings for this. The colleague also stated that the patient often came to the office after consuming alcohol, was seen with clenched fists and grinding his teeth most of the time, and was once caught using alcohol in the office. The patient's mother had expired two days prior, and he had been at home for the last two days, just rejoining the office today. What is the likely diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Alcohol withdrawal

Answer

Primary seizure disorder

Answer

Cerebral hemorrhage

Answer

Malingering

Question 3

Which of the following is NOT typically seen in alcohol withdrawal?

Accepted Answer

Blackouts

Answer

Seizures

Answer

Coarse tremor

Answer

Hallucinations

Question 4

A 36-year-old female with a history of chronic alcoholism reports auditory hallucinations, specifically hearing voices giving commands, and also experiences insomnia. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Alcoholic hallucinosis

Answer

Delirium tremens

Answer

Depression

Answer

Wernicke's encephalopathy

Question 5

Which non-opioid medication can be used to treat some of the symptoms of opioid withdrawal syndrome?

Accepted Answer

Clonidine

Answer

Chlordiazepoxide

Answer

Haloperidol

Answer

Methadone

Question 6

Which of the following is a true statement regarding addictive gaming behaviour?

Accepted Answer

It will come into effect from January 1, 2022.

Answer

For its diagnosis, a behaviour pattern must be of sufficient severity to result in significant impairment for at least 6 months.

Answer

It affects only sleep patterns and diet patterns are preserved.

Answer

It shows increased physical activity.

Question 7

Paranoid schizophrenia is mimicked by the intake of which of the following substances?

Accepted Answer

Amphetamine

Answer

Heroin

Answer

Cannabis

Answer

Alcohol

Question 8

Which of the following are true about delirium tremens?

Accepted Answer

Clouding of consciousness, coarse tremors, and autonomic dysfunction

Answer

Clouding of consciousness, coarse tremors, and hallucination

Answer

Coarse tremors, hallucination, and autonomic dysfunction

Answer

Clouding of consciousness, hallucination, and autonomic dysfunction

Question 9

Physical withdrawal symptoms are not marked in patients abusing which of the following substances?

Accepted Answer

Cannabis

Answer

Pethidine

Answer

Opium

Answer

Alcohol

Question 10

Which of the following is a symptom of opioid withdrawal?

Accepted Answer

Piloerection

Answer

Dry skin

Answer

Bradycardia

Answer

Pupillary constriction

Substance Use Disorders — MCQs

Substance Use Disorders — MCQs

On this page

Practice by Chapter

Want unlimited practice?